Medical innovation from Northern Ireland at global exhibition

Nov 03, 2009

The biggest-ever representation of medical technology from Northern Ireland in Europe will be seen at MEDICA 2009, the world’s largest medical trade fair and congress in Dusseldorf from 18-21 November.

Five local companies along with senior representatives of the University of Ulster and the Health and Social Care Innovations Centre in Belfast will be taking part on the Invest Northern Ireland group stand.

A further five companies will have their own stands and eight will be at the international show on a business development visit organised by Invest NI.

Innovative products from local companies range from wireless sensors used to monitor patients, 3D simulators and models for training surgeons and paramedics, advanced diagnostic systems, and a bed safety product for elderly patients.

More than 4,000 exhibitors from 65 countries will be taking part in the unique event. MEDICA gives decision makers from around the world the opportunity to find out about the latest developments in health technologies. Of about 137,000 visitors who attended last year, almost half came from outside Germany.

The exhibition features presentations from leading experts on some of the key innovations, ranging from imaging, to heart surgery and diagnostics, to cancer therapies.

Other topics include the latest trends in cardiac surgery and the monitoring of patients in the operating theatre and in intensive care.

After Germany, the largest exhibitors come from Italy, the US, China and France followed by the UK, Spain and the Netherlands.

“MEDICA is simply the best platform for local companies to display their knowledge and expertise and to keep abreast of current trends in what is a very dynamic global industry. We’ve been organising Northern Ireland participation over many years and seen a number of local companies secure significant business.”

Alongside the events aimed at doctors, the Medica congress will also offer special training sessions for other medical professions such as nurses and carers, medical technical assistants, doctor's receptionists, physiotherapists, as well as information forums for patients and relatives. Included in the extensive programme are technical sessions on vision conditions and physiotherapy techniques.

Held in parallel to MEDICA 2009 is COMPAMED, the leading international trade fair for components, parts and raw materials for medical manufacturing.

Some 500 COMPAMED exhibitors will be showcasing a comprehensive range of high-tech solutions for use in the medical device technology industry, for instance micro system technology, nano technologies, and new materials, as well as packaging and services.